Keome Rowe
Keome Rowe is the kind of student who actively participates in class discussions and always excels on tests, even in the most demanding courses. His model scholarship is surprising since he is the first person in his family to graduate from high school and college.
“I had the opportunity to take a learning community course in government and history with Keome,” says his nominator, Lizbeth Garcia. “He is a prime example of the all-around student.”
Keome is an active member of Phi Theta Kappa and was recently elected the regional Vice President for Phi Theta Kappa. Because of his leadership, the Phi Kappa Theta chapter at Vernon College was named the most improved chapter at the organization’s recent regional convention. Keome was singularly responsible for reactivating this chapter and getting them to participate in district and regional events. He was also inducted into the Regional Hall of Honor. Keome is also a candidate for PTK International President.
He has been named to the President’s Honor Roll, Vice President’s List, and the National Dean’s List. His other honors and awards include being named the 2007 Richland College Student of the Year and an R. Jan LeCroy Scholar, receiving a Congressional Gold Medal, the President’s Volunteer Service Award, and Big Brother of the Year Award.
Keome’s admirable qualities extend beyond the classroom. He regularly volunteers for the Family Gateway, the Salvation Army, Keep Dallas Beautiful and Big Brothers Big Sisters. During Spring Break 2007, Keome joined the United Way’s relief effort in New Orleans and Lake Charles, Louisiana, to help with the recovery from Hurricane Katrina and Rita. More than two years after the hurricanes, many parts of southwest Louisiana are still devastated by debris, mold, and unsanitary conditions. Keome and others helped by cleaning up as well as by spreading hope and kindness.
Keome is an intern for U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison and in the fall of 2008, Keome plans to transfer to the University of Texas to pursue a degree in political science.